The Pacific Northwest is a fantastic region for veteran mountaineers and inexperienced climbers, alike. While Mount Rainier is arguably one of the most popular peaks to climb, there are several other peaks scattered throughout the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges that offer a thrilling challenge.

Mt. Baker is one of the most renowned volcanoes in the region. At 10,781 feet, it is the highest peak in the North Cascades, and the third highest mountain in Washington State. It has a dozen glaciers and numerous permanent snow fields, classifying Mt. Baker as the iciest in the Cascade Range. In addition, the mountain receives incredible amounts of snowfall each year (holding the world record at approximately 30 meters in 1998), so crevasses and avalanches are significant dangers. Climbers should have or be accompanied with a guide that has crevasse rescue training and glacier travel experience.

However, Mt. Baker is a spectacularly beautiful volcano to climb and photograph as you do! At the summit, mountaineers find a 35-acre ice mount covering the crater, for incredible views of the Olympic and British Columbia mountain ranges, Mount Rainier and the rest of the North Cascades and their lowlands. Its glaciers offer an excellent training opportunity to new climbers who are looking for a challenge in ice climbing.

The mountain offers mountaineering opportunities for both beginners and experts. There are three basic routes for less experienced climbers: Boulder Glacier, Easton Glacier (also known as the “Railroad Grade”), and Coleman/Deming Glacier. The Ptarmigan and North Ridge routes are more difficult route for more experienced mountaineers and guided tours. All climbing routes have over 7,000 feet of elevation gain, mostly over glaciers. Climbing trips to the summit at Grant Peak take 2-3 days, and typically take place between May and August each year, although year-round attempts are made.